Reward offered for information on Smokies vandals

Published: February 7, 2013 10:33 AM

GATLINBURG, Tenn. (AP) -- The National Park Service is offering a $1,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for vandalizing stone walls at the Sinks in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The Sinks is a roadside waterfall that attracts visitors throughout the year who want to view the 15-foot cascade.

On Jan. 31 visitors reported that vandals spray-painted pictures and profanity along the walkways, stone walls and natural rock throughout the area. The graffiti includes references to "Wolfgang" and "Lumberjack."

The Sinks parking area underwent a renovation in 2010 that included construction of new stone masonry walls and a new overlook with handrails so visitors, including the disabled, could safely view the waterfall and rapids below. It took hours to remove the offensive graffiti.